Because I've been in my job as a labor and delivery nurse for over 18-1/2 years, I'm guilty of taking my employment for granted. However, my unit recently restructured, which has affected how much I'm able to work. I won't go into detail, but suffice it to say that my paychecks have gone from more than enough to not quite enough. I do not expect this to be a long term issue, so I'll stay where I am.
After all, I love my job and have successfully weathered a number of workplace changes throughout the years.
However, I am being even more careful with money than usual, (which is saying a lot) and have had to put certain savings plans on hold for the moment.
Luckily, I have multiple income streams. Blogging, cleaning my mother's guest cottages and selling thrifted items through Craigslist and eBay add enough to our checking account to soften the blow.
It doesn't make up for the lost income, but we will survive.
This is bad timing though, as the boys are in their sophomore and senior years of high school, and we've been putting every spare penny towards anticipated college expenses. And to have those "spare pennies" taken away gives me an uh-oh feeling.
But my family is not alone. Today the United States government shut down, and huge numbers of hardworking Americans had their livelihood put in jeopardy. To be told to stay home without pay for no reason other than political gesturing is grossly offensive.
Already the Non-Consumer Advocate Facebook Group is fired up with dozens of members writing about they're being affected by the government shutdown. (Luckily the Non-Consumer Advocate Facebook Group has a long term culture of respect, and it's rare for members to be abusive or otherwise troll-like in their communications.)
"My husband is a federal employee and gets to work for free this morning to do the official shutdown. After that we will just be thankful we have kept our expenses to the minimum."
"I am a federal employee and am out of work. "
"I am a fed employee also and off work without pay"
"I'm a federal employee. The government adds insult to injury by not just laying you off, but by making you come in to work (this morning) to sign your official furlough notice. "
You get the gist.
For all of you who are affected by today's shutdown of the federal government, please know that your sacrifice is appreciated. For your thankless work, and for your troubles. No one's livelihood should be held hostage by quarrelsome and small minded politicians.
Have you been affected by the government shutdown? Please share your stories in the comments section below.
Katy Wolk-Stanley
"Use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without."